Yes. Most delivery drivers in Philadelphia can file both claims.
If you deliver for Amazon Flex, UPS, USPS, DoorDash, or Uber Eats and were bitten by a dog while working, you may have two separate cases — a workers’ compensation claim for your medical bills and partial wages, and a homeowner insurance claim for pain, scarring, and full wage loss. Coordinating both correctly helps you keep more of your recovery.
Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
- You can file workers’ comp and a homeowner claim at the same time.
- Get medical care fast and document everything.
- Do not give a recorded statement to the dog owner’s insurer before talking to a lawyer.
- Handle lien and subrogation issues carefully to avoid paying money back after settlement.
- Homeowner claims can cover scarring, therapy, and full wage loss.
Step-by-Step: What to Do After a Dog Bite
- Get treated immediately. Visit urgent care or the ER and follow the wound-care plan.
- Report the injury. Notify your supervisor or report it through your delivery app the same day.
- Call animal control. Obtain the case number for your records.
- Take photos. Capture your injuries, the property, gates, and any missing warning signs.
- Save evidence. Keep your torn uniform, gloves, or damaged gear.
- Document your route. Save screenshots of your delivery confirmation and messages with the customer.
- Call a lawyer. Never give a recorded statement before getting legal advice.
Two Claims, Not One
Workers’ Compensation
Pays medical bills and part of your lost wages. You don’t have to prove the dog owner was at fault — only that you were injured on the job.
Third-Party Claim Against the Dog Owner
Targets the homeowner or renter insurance. It can cover what workers’ comp doesn’t — pain and suffering, permanent scarring, therapy, and long-term care.
Why Coordination Matters
Workers’ comp can place a lien on your recovery. A lawyer can structure the settlement so lien issues are resolved and you keep more of your compensation.
Learn more about Workers’ Compensation in Pennsylvania and Dog Bite Injury Claims.
“The Dog Never Bit Anyone Before”
That usually doesn’t block your case. Pennsylvania and New Jersey law can still hold owners responsible for leash violations, broken fences, or unsafe access.
Insurance companies settle dog bite cases every day — even when the owner says the dog was friendly.
Local Delivery Hazards in Philadelphia and South Jersey
Each route has its own risks. Many bites happen on:
- Narrow rowhouse stoops in South Philadelphia
- Porch drop-offs in West Philly
- Shared alley gates in Northeast Philadelphia
- Porch entries in Camden County and Burlington County
The type of gate latch, leash setup, or property layout can determine fault and coverage.
What Your Case Might Include
- Emergency care and antibiotics
- Tetanus or rabies shots
- Plastic surgery consultations
- Therapy for trauma or fear of dogs
- Full wage loss beyond workers’ comp
- Pain, scarring, and loss of enjoyment of life
- Replacement of damaged gear, glasses, or phone
What Not to Do
- Don’t give a recorded statement to the owner’s insurer.
- Don’t post photos or comments online.
- Don’t skip follow-up medical visits.
What We Do for Delivery Workers
- Investigate the scene and obtain the animal control report.
- Coordinate your workers’ comp and third-party claims.
- Resolve liens and negotiate with both insurance carriers.
We regularly help USPS carriers, Amazon Flex, UPS, FedEx, DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, and Instacart workers after delivery-route dog bites. We listen first, then we act.
Quick Summary
- Delivery drivers can pursue two claims after a dog bite: workers’ comp and homeowner insurance.
- Report the bite, get treatment, and document everything.
- Philadelphia and South Jersey routes often involve leash or gate issues.
- A lawyer coordinates both claims so you keep more of your recovery.
- Free consultations at 1800CANTWORK.com.
FAQs
Can I file both a workers’ comp claim and a dog bite claim?
Yes. Workers’ comp covers medical care and partial wages. The homeowner claim covers pain, scarring, and full wage loss.
Do I need proof the dog bit someone before?
No. Negligence, leash violations, or unsafe property conditions are enough.
What if I’m a DoorDash, Amazon Flex, or Uber Eats driver?
You may have platform coverage plus a homeowner claim. A lawyer can help coordinate both.
What if the owner says I trespassed or provoked the dog?
Delivery instructions, route data, video footage, and the animal control report can prove otherwise.
You Deliver for Everyone Else — Let Someone Deliver for You
At the Law Offices of Eric A. Shore, we’ve helped thousands of delivery professionals and injured workers recover the benefits they deserve.
Call 1-800-CANT-WORK or visit 1800CANTWORK.com for a free, confidential case review.
Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal advice. Laws vary by state. For advice about your situation in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, speak with a lawyer.
